Binding 13 and Keeping 13 by Chloe Walsh

I don’t even know where to start on reviewing this duet. First off, you should know, these books are like 1700 pages combined and you HAVE to read them back to back because the first book ends on a cliffhanger. I did a combo of ebook and audiobook and I’m so glad I did because the audiobook was so helpful with all of the Irish pronunciations and accents. Also, this book is about the equivalent of high schoolers (ages 15-18 throughout the storyline) but the content of the story is so mature and the relationship between the hero and heroine is so mature that it really read more like a college romance to me.

Johnny is the star rugby player at his school and even plays for the national team. Shannon has been bullied all of her life and finally ends up transferring to her new school, where Johnny attends, and he promptly kicks a rugby ball into her head giving her a concussion on her first day. He instantly steps up to take her to the office and make sure someone gets her medical attention and his protectiveness over Shannon begins. He is honestly one of the best heroes I’ve ever read - steadfast and protective and gentle and kind. And Shannon gives him so much in the way she cares for him as a person so fiercely and couldn’t be bothered with his fame or stature as a top rugby player in school and professionally. There are some incredibly dark moments on page including bullying and violence at home so check the trigger warnings. But I just completely loved the experience of watching Johnny and Shannon become acquaintances and then friends and then so much more. I loved seeing Shannon grow in her confidence and in her relationships with her brothers. I loved all of their school friends, especially Gibs! And I loved seeing Johnny realize how much of life outside of rugby he wanted to experience. I have a feeling I will re-listen/re-read these before the end of the year! I’m so glad that @liveanovellife and @avivaslibrary talked about these books so I could learn about them and give them a try!

What’s the longest book you’ve read so far this year?